New photos obtained by News 12 show the extent of storm damage across South Plainfield, where severe weather on Friday uprooted trees and knocked out power to roughly 1,000 homes.
Among the damage reported across the borough, the large tree outside the McCriskin-Gustafson Home for Funerals—traditionally decorated every year for the Christmas holiday—was completely brought down by strong winds.
In a message to the community, South Plainfield Mayor Matthew Anesh stated that emergency services and the Department of Public Works worked through the night to clear debris and identify downed power lines. As of Saturday, approximately 1,000 homes on the borough's north side remain without power.
Including Plainfield Avenue, Merchants Avenue, and Geary Drive remain blocked by fallen trees and wires.
Mayor Anesh urges all residents to exercise extreme caution when stepping outside. As PSE&G crews work to restore electricity, downed wires that become re-energized could pose severe safety hazards. Residents are asked to stay home if possible, avoid unnecessary travel, and keep roadways clear for utility and emergency crews.
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